LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 25th Anniversary of TAUNY,
Traditional Arts in Upstate New York, in 2011

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that organizations
which give positive definition to the profile and disposition of the
communities of the State of New York profoundly strengthen our society
with their commitment; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 25th Anniversary of TAUNY, Traditional Arts in Upstate New
York, in 2011; and
WHEREAS, This milestone anniversary will be observed with a year-long
celebration to include an array of cultural events, starting with an
Auction, TAUNY at 25, featuring local art and antiques, to be held in
the Eben Holden Conference Center on the St. Lawrence University Campus
in Canton, New York, on Thursday, May 26, 2011; and
WHEREAS, Other festivities planned to observe this remarkable organ-
ization's 25th Anniversary in 2011, include a reception, a house party
and a tour of the home of North Country folk artist Carl Martel; in
addition, special commemorative events will take place at selected
cultural landmarks on TAUNY's register of Very Special Places; and
WHEREAS, What began in 1986, as Varick Chittenden's vision, a few
interested participants, and a home office in Canton, New York, has
evolved into a highly regarded nonprofit cultural organization, which
includes an enthusiastic staff, an active Board of Directors, and a
committed membership, as well as programs and activities spanning the
northern 14 counties of the state; and
WHEREAS, TAUNY is a nonprofit membership organization, officially
incorporated in 1990, dedicated to showcasing the folk culture and
living traditions of New York's North Country, with its diverse customs
and traditions including storytelling, music, crafts, food, and folk
art, that make life special in the region spreading from the St.
Lawrence River to the Adirondack Mountains; and
WHEREAS, TAUNY remains dedicated to presenting regional traditions and
artists to a wide variety of audiences, in an effort to appeal to
natives, transplants, seasonal residents, scholars, students, and tour-
ists; and
WHEREAS, TAUNY's goal is to explore the idea of regional identity for
the North Country and to seek the diversity of cultures located there,
to create a better understanding and appreciation for the ordinary
things of everyday life that make the region unique; and
WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to commemorate
those events of historical significance which add strength, vigor and
inspiration to the cultural diversity and quality of life in the commu-
nities of the State of New York; and
WHEREAS, It is most fitting that we take time to celebrate the arts of
our Nation, to honor our artist communities, and to express our appreci-
ation to everyone who patronizes the arts; and as we celebrate the arts,
we celebrate and give thanks to our American freedom, the only atmos-
phere in which artists can truly create and in which art is truly the
expression of the soul; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 25th Anniversary of TAUNY, Traditional Arts in Upstate
New York, in 2011; and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to TAUNY, Traditional Arts in Upstate New York.